TOURISM LEGEND DAVID GRAHAM HONOURED WITH LIFETIME ACHIEVEMENT AWARD

In a resounding tribute to a career that has shaped hospitality in Zimbabwe’s Eastern Highlands, David Graham, a stalwart of the tourism sector, has been presented with a Lifetime Achievement Award for his outstanding work at the White Horse Inn in the scenic Bvumba mountains. The recognition celebrates over four decades of dedication to excellence and his profound impact on the nation’s tourism landscape.

The White Horse Inn is much more than just a country hotel; it’s a household name in Zimbabwean tourism, synonymous with Hospitality Excellence. Located amidst the magnificent Bvumba Mountains—often called the “Mountains of the Mist”—the Inn offers a tranquil escape just a short drive from Mutare. Its history stretches back to the mid-1930s as a cottage, and after serving as a family home, it became a licensed hotel in 1964.

David Graham took ownership around 1980 and has been the Inn’s custodian for nearly 30 years, diligently maintaining and enhancing its renowned standards of comfort, cuisine, and friendly service. He has overseen numerous expansions and refurbishments, adding guest rooms, suites, and communal areas, all while preserving the inn’s old-world charm and reputation for fine dining and a comprehensive wine list. The Inn’s popularity is a testament to this enduring quality, proudly welcoming generational guests who consistently leave glowing reviews. The surrounding area, with its picturesque gardens, indigenous forests, and a plethora of birdlife, makes the White Horse Inn a true gem of the Eastern Highlands.

Graham’s influence extends far beyond the White Horse Inn. He is a former General Manager of Troutbeck Resort, another iconic establishment in the Eastern Highlands. His amazing impact at Troutbeck was evident during a recent visit for the award presentation, where two senior managers immediately recognized him, recalling their time working under his mentorship as young men. This connection underscores his role not only as a successful hotelier but also as a mentor who has contributed significantly to developing skilled professionals in the industry.

During the award ceremony, David Graham was also presented with the Record Breaker Award. A lighter moment was shared as he reminisced about the incredible journey he has had in Zimbabwean tourism, particularly his deep love for the Bvumba. His career is a beacon of commitment, having set a high bar for service and longevity that continues to inspire the industry. His lifetime achievement award is a well-deserved tribute to a man whose vision and dedication have enriched the Zimbabwean tourist experience for generations.